FAQ - All Answered for you

Q: How can I become a volunteer at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: To become a volunteer, fill out the application form online, schedule an interview, complete digital document signing, and if 18 or older, upload a police background check. If under 18, upload a document stating so. Once all steps are complete, attend an onboarding session at the Centre to access positions and schedule shifts.

Q. How do I get access to Police Check -VSPN document?
A: If you are 18 or 18+ and already have a valid police check, please upload it under Qualifications under the Police Check option. If you DO NOT have a valid VSPN Police check, we can initiate one for you AT NO COST TO YOU after you clear your interview.

If you are under 18, please attach a Word document stating your full name and date of birth under the qualifications waiver. 

Q: What are the requirements to volunteer at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: Volunteers must be at least 14+ years old, complete a volunteer application, schedule an interview, attend an orientation session, and undergo a police background check if they are 18 years old or older.

Q: What kind of volunteer opportunities are available at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: We offer a variety of volunteer roles, including exhibit interpreters, program assistants, special event volunteers, and more. The specific roles available may vary based on current needs.

Q: Do you entertain group volunteers?
A: Yes, we welcome group volunteering opportunities. Please email sparkvolunteers@sparkscience.ca for more information.

Q: What is the time commitment required for volunteering at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: The time commitment varies depending on the role. Generally, volunteers are expected to commit to a certain number of hours per month or per event. We usually expect you to volunteer for complete hours. But in case you have only 2 hours instead of 4, please inform your supervisor and Volunteer program manager, and don't forget to clock in the hours in your volunteer software. However, nothing less than 2 hours is acceptable.

Q: Are there specific requirements for summer camp volunteers?
A: Yes, summer camp volunteers must undergo a police background check if they are 18 years old or older. We require long-term commitment volunteers for summer camps, and only those who can volunteer for 4-hour shifts and 8-hour shifts on a regular basis should apply.

Q: What are the rewards for volunteering at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: On completion of 60 volunteer hours, you get 2 Spark passes. On completion of 100 hours, you get a professional reference letter from Spark Science Centre. On completion of 125 hours, you get a free annual Spark membership plus 2 Spark passes. All volunteers get 25% off at the merch store, eatery, and Astronaut Cafe.

Q: Where should I enter when volunteering at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: Always enter via the security door only. No volunteer will be allowed to volunteer unless you have scheduled your shift via the volunteer management site.

Q: Can I volunteer only for Beakerhead?
A: Yes, you can volunteer specifically for Beakerhead. Once you fill in the application form, please choose Beakerhead only in the related question.

Q: Why do I see myself on a waitlist or unable to sign up for a particular need?
A: This is because the specific opportunity has reached its maximum capacity and is currently filled or scheduled by other volunteers. You may have to wait for a spot to become available or explore other volunteer opportunities that are open for registration.

Q: What is the volunteering process at TELUS Spark Science Centre?
A: To volunteer, you can apply via the registration link on our website. We will send you a welcome message, and then you can schedule an interview with us ("SCHEDULE YOUR INTERVIEW) UNDER QUALIFICATION. Once we feel you are a fit, you will be required to complete a police background check (we will send the link to you, and it's free of cost). Once we have all your documents uploaded and other requirements complete, we will invite you to an onboarding session, and you will have access to all volunteer needs.

Q: What does the onboarding process include?
A: The onboarding process includes ice breaking, discussion of volunteer positions, behavioral protocols, health and safety guidelines, a building tour, and getting acquainted with staff.

Any questions not answered? 

Please email us at Sparkvolunteers@sparkscience.ca